The Otavalo market is the place to come into contact with the craftsmanship of the Kichwa people. Located in Otavalo, in the Ecuadorian province of Imbabura, it is considered one of the largest and most colorful markets in Latin America and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Where is it located
In the Plaza de los Ponchos, in the center of Otavalo, which is a city 90 km from Quito. That is why it is possible to visit the market on a day trip without staying in Otavalo.
It is also known as Mercado Centenario and not only occupies the aforementioned plaza but also extends to the adjacent streets, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Handmade products
The Otavalo market is known for offering a wide variety of high-quality artisan products. You will find wool fabrics, such as ponchos, scarves, sweaters and tapestries, made by the indigenous Otavaleños. There is also a large selection of silver jewelry, ceramics, basketry, musical instruments, masks and paintings.
Fabrics
The market sells products that are the result of the work of Otavalo weavers and shows the skill they have to create splendid and striking textiles that will surely captivate you. The details with which the blankets, bags, tablecloths, sweaters and scarves are made draw the attention of those who visit this site.
Clothes
The market sells the typical clothing used by the people of the Otavalo town. You can find white blouses with fringes and lace sleeves, anacos that are worn as a skirt), sashes that serve to hold anacos), hair ribbons, scarves, espadrilles and many red manillas (coral beads). It is also possible to buy: hats, white espadrilles, wool ponchos, white shirts and pants.
Food in the market
In addition to artisanal products, the market has a section dedicated to fresh foods and agricultural products. Here you can find local fruits, vegetables, spices, medicinal herbs and dairy products.
It is also famous for its variety of traditional Ecuadorian foods, such as hornado (roasted pork), fritada (fried pork) and delicious paila ice creams. In the Otavalo market and its surroundings it is possible to find many restaurants that offer typical food from the mountains of Ecuador. Here are some suggestions from the food we tried.
Llapingachos or cooked potatoes
Llapingachos are made mainly of cooked and mashed potatoes, mixed with grated cheese and sometimes chopped onion and parsley are also incorporated. The resulting mixture is formed into small round cakes and then fried in oil until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
This dish is usually accompanied with various ingredients such as chorizo, fried egg, avocado, tomato, pickled onion and a sauce called “ají” that can be spicy or mild, depending on each person’s taste. Llapingachos are tasty and satisfying, and are considered a hearty, comforting food in Ecuador.
Fry (Fritada)
Fritada is a typical dish from the province of Imbabura. The pork is cooked in water and orange juice with cumin, garlic, onion, shallot, salt and pepper until there is no water left and the meat begins to brown in its own fat with peel, mote, toast and chili.
The companions vary from place to place. It is usually accompanied with parboiled (boiled) cassava, mote, fried ripe plantains, curtido of onion and tomato, and a good chili. Other times you will see them served rice, llapingachos or potato tortillas, parboiled potatoes, avocado and various salads.
Potato locro
Locro is emblematic of the Ecuadorian Sierra, it is made with a medium-sized potato called papa chola locrera, which has the peculiarity of releasing a lot of starch, resulting in a thick soup.
Baked
It is a dish that contains baked pork, it is mainly cooked on firewood, accompanied by different sauces and cooked vegetables, such as corn, llapingachos, fried ripe plantain, avocado, lettuce and tomato.
Cultural environment
The Otavalo market is not only a place to buy products, but also to experience indigenous culture. Many Otavalo indigenous people dress in their colorful traditional costumes and wool hats, creating an authentic and picturesque atmosphere. Additionally, traditional music and dance performances are often held in the central plaza, providing a taste of the region’s rich cultural tradition.
Market days
Otavalo market is largest and busiest on Wednesdays and Saturdays, but it is also open the other days of the week. Although Saturdays are when all its splendor is displayed, it is possible to visit it on other days to enjoy a quieter experience.
It can be visited throughout the day, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., but as is the case in all markets in the world, it is best to go in the morning because there is more product on offer.
The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar and if you are going to buy something it is advisable to bring cash of that low denomination currency so as not to have problems with the exchange.
FAQs
How to get to Otavalo?
BY BUS From Quito it is a journey that takes approximately 1 hour and a half from Terminal Carcelén and arrives in Otavalo. Services depart every 5 minutes and operate daily.
Of course there are also organized excursions.
How’s the weather?
It is warm and temperate with an average temperature of 14.7° C. Since temperatures usually drop during the afternoon and night, it is recommended to wear warm clothing.
The Otavalo market is a fascinating place to immerse yourself in Ecuadorian culture, shop for unique products, and enjoy the authenticity and color of the region. It is an unmissable visit for lovers of crafts, culture and traditional markets.
